Reform UK councillors have introduced a standardised flag protocol for Barnsley Town Hall, establishing clear rules for which flags display and when. Under the proposal, the Union Flag would remain on the highest flagpole year-round except St George's Day, with a defined rotation for the St George's Cross, Armed Forces Flag, Yorkshire rose, and commemorative Remembrance banners. A Barnsley Coat of Arms flag would stay permanently at the Mayor's chambers, and any flags beyond this list would require approval from the council leader.

The policy follows the council's decision in June not to fly the Pride flag during Pride Month, which drew criticism from Barnsley Pride organisers and prompted a town centre protest. Advocates argued the flag's absence reduced visibility for the LGBTQ+ community. The council frames the new policy as establishing consistent standards reflecting civic pride and values that unite residents, whilst critics view it as formalising restrictions on symbolic representation for minority communities. Council will debate the proposal on 16 July.